FBI probes Virginia governor's failure to disclose gifts from campaign donor

Federal investigators are looking into the connections between Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell (R) and a campaign donor that runs a health supplements company in the state, four unnamed sources told The Washington Post.

The Post learned that Star Scientific CEO Jonnie R. Williams Sr. and McDonnell appear to have unusually close ties after the company disclosed that it had been subpoenaed in a federal securities investigation. Sources speaking off the record reportedly said that investigation has now turned to undisclosed gifts given to McDonnell and his wife Maureen, and whether they responded with favors in turn.

Star Scientific produces a health supplement called Anatabloc, which the company launched at a 2011 event held at the governor's mansion, featuring McDonnell and his wife. A photo of McDonnell was also reportedly on the Anatabloc Facebook page until recently.

Both the company and its CEO have also donated over $120,000 to the governor and his political action committee, the Post added. Williams also reportedly paid $15,000 for the catering at the couple's daughter's wedding: an over-payment of $3,500. A refund for that same amount was later made out to McDonnell's wife, the Post noted.

The governor's office declined to comment.

------

Photo: AFP.